Quinnipiac University’s School of Education Appoints Three New Faculty Members

The new faculty members are Judith Falaro, of North Haven, visiting assistant professor of education; Christina Pavlak, of New Haven, visiting instructor of education; and Ruth Schwartz, of Bronx, N.Y., assistant professor of education.

“The School of Education recently developed a strategic plan which includes enhancements to existing programs as well as new academic program offerings. Judy, Christina and Ruth bring expertise in three distinct areas that will help us achieve these goals,” said Kevin Basmadjian, dean of the School of Education.

Judy will coordinate our recently launched ‘Special Education Certificate of Completion, as well as begin research on a new MS in Special Education,” Basmadjian said. “Christina brings needed expertise in English Language Learners issues to our MAT Program, as well as a strong theoretical background in social justice. And finally, Ruth will develop and direct our new master’s level program in instructional design, which we hope will begin admitting students for the Fall 2014 semester.”

Prior to coming to Quinnipiac, Falaro served in a variety of roles for New Haven Public Schools, from 1971 to 2004, including as a teacher, principal of Wilbur Cross High School and Celentano School, and supervisor of magnet schools. Falaro holds a JD from Western New England University School of Law; a sixth-year degree in administration and supervision; a master of arts in computer assisted instruction and media from Fairfield University; and a bachelor of science in special education from Southern Connecticut State University.

Pavlak came to Quinnipiac from Boston College. At Quinnipiac, she will teach education courses on diversity in the classroom and learning and teaching in the elementary classroom. She also will teach a section of QU 101: The Individual in the Community, which is required for all freshmen. Pavlak earned her doctorate in curriculum and instruction from the Boston College’s Lynch School of Education; a master’s degree in sociology and education from Columbia University’s Teachers College; and a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology and Spanish from Colgate University.

Schwartz came to Quinnipiac from New York University. A veteran classroom teacher in Washington DC, Schwartz is teaching Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education as well as courses for Quinnipiac’s game design program. She earned her doctorate in educational communication and technology from New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education & Human Development; an EdM in human development from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education; and an AB in visual and environmental studies from Harvard University.